Summer fashion trends beat the heat

Summer has officially checked in to the city of El Paso bringing along its blazing temperatures that only seem to be getting higher. But along with the heat rise is a wide set of mod fashions and trends for both men and women to wear this summer season.

"Gold is what's really in right now as far as jewelry," said Paula Garza, sales associate at Luka 7. "There's also a trend with hints of feminine looks going on."

Lace, sheer neutrals and whites are playing a major role in fashion right now, but in contrast is the look of brights, color blocking, bohemian patterns and florals.

"Color blocking is really popular right now. We are currently suggesting color combinations such as orange with purple and electric blue with a bright red," said Soraya Moctezuma, owner of Fasha. "There's a contrast between color and big and delicate jewelry."

Whether it's free flowing or tight, skirts are definitely always in for the summer. High waist skirts have made a major comeback and paired with a chic pair of sandals they complete a feminine summer look.

"I love to wear bright colors during the summer and just try to mix and match flimsy skirts with cute tops and sandals," said Ana Lopez, senior finance major. "I also love patterns and big bangles for summer."

Shorts are another classic for the summer. Not only do they alleviate from the heat, but they also play a stylish role when worn with long bohemian blouses.

"My favorite summer garment is shorts. You can wear them casually in flip flops, or dress them up with a nice blouse," said Rebecca Morales, senior organizational and corporate communication major.

Aside from skirts and shorts, more of the romper is being seen now than in recent years. It is a one-piece garment that has become one of the latest trends and women are wearing it for its commodity and stylish look.

"With rompers you can still look good while being comfortable," said Lorena Martinez, visual merchandising at Ella Blu. "Bright colored tunics that can be worn with leggings or over bathing suits are also perfect for the summer."

As for men, above the knee instead of below the knee shorts are becoming a major trend.

"I like to wear short shorts above the knee," said Pablo Delgadillo, sophomore advertising major. "I like to wear lots of color, especially neon or pastels."

The bright color trend goes the same for men as well. So perhaps a pair of bright red pants could go great with a beige or nude v-neck. Cotton v-neck t-shirts are excellent for the summer because they are thin and they always come in a variety of colors or with artsy designs.

Jeans are an item that never go out of style but for summer it's best to wear light denim. There is also a recent trend of rolling the bottoms of the jeans up in order for the inside of the jeans to show.

"Men always look for comfort and jeans are always in," said Raquel Cuaron, owner of Pure Denim." Skinny and boot cut are always in style."

To dress up an outfit, a blazer can be worn with skinny jeans or even above the knee shorts.

"Blazers are going to continue to be in style but in light colors such as white and in linen," said Gloria Carrasco from Homework.

Fedora hats and feathers are two other stylish accessories. Both men and women are seen wearing a fedora whether it's during the day or at night. Feathers are being worn as earrings or as part of a hair extension.

So even with this unbearable heat, it is still possible to look mod and stylish with this summer's fashion essentials.

Natalia Aguilar may be reached at prospector@utep.edu.